All Saints Day is a time to rejoice in all who through the ages have found rest eternal. The day reminds us that we are part of one continuing, living communion of saints. It is a time to express our gratitude for all who have kept the faith, for those who have take the gospel to the ends of the earth, for prophetic voices who have called the church to be faithful in life and service, for all who have witnessed to God’s justice and peace in every nation.

To rejoice with all the faithful of every generation expands our awareness of a great company of witnesses above and around us like a cloud (Hebrews 12:1). It lifts us out of a preoccupation with our own immediate situation and the discouragements of the present. In the knowledge that others have persevered, we are encouraged to endure against all odds. Reminded that God was with the faithful of the past, we are reassured that God is with us today, moving us and all creation toward God’s end in time. In this context, it is appropriate for our congregation on All Saints’ Day to commemorate the lives of those who died during the previous year. 

You are invited to join us for a special service of worship on Monday, November 1 at 7:00 PM in the sanctuary to celebrate All Saints Day.